This festive day began with a procession of giant peace doves with youth, performers and community members who marched to the United Nations Association (UNA) pillar for its unveiling by UNA officials. Other highlights included: Native American blessing and song by interfaith women; performances by Aztec, Hmong and Irish dancers and song by students; display of Letter by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, State Resolution by Senator Deborah Ortiz and Assembly Member Dave Jones, County Resolution presented by Supervisor Roger Dickinson and Proclamation by Sacramento Mayor Heather Fargo; and an international art display by youth. Bill McDonald, Vietnam veteran and author gave an inspiring talk and the program ended with the ringing of a bell, a moment of silence and throwing of rose petals.

About the International Day of Peace (IDP) The IDP was established in 1981 by a United Nations resolution for the purpose of encouraging world citizens to devote a specific day to “commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples.” An amendment in 2001 designates September as the official International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire and non-violence. To find an event close to you, visit IDP website at: www.internationaldayofpeace.orgcIf there isn’t one close to you, plan one!